Chapter XLII.—The order of ministers in the Church. The apostles have preached the Gospel to us from177 the Lord Jesus Christ; Jesus Christ [has done so] from178 God. Christ therefore was sent forth by God, and the apostles by Christ. Both these appointments,179 then, were made in an orderly way, according to the will of God. Having therefore received their orders, and being fully assured by the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, and established180 in the word of God, with full assurance of the Holy Ghost, they went forth proclaiming that the kingdom of God was at hand. And thus preaching through countries and cities, they appointed the first-fruits [of their labours], having first proved them by the Spirit,181 to be bishops and deacons of those who should afterwards believe. Nor was this any new thing, since indeed many ages before it was written concerning bishops and deacons. For thus saith the Scripture in a certain place, “I will appoint their bishops182 in righteousness, and their deacons183 in faith.”184 177 Or, “by the command of.” 178 Or, “by the command of.” 179 Literally, “both things were done.” 180 Or, “confirmed by.” 181 Or, “having tested them in spirit.” 182 Or, “overseers.” 183 Or, “servants.” 184 Isa. lx. 17, Sept.; but the text is here altered by Clement. The LXX. have “I will give thy rulers in peace, and thy overseers in righteousness.” Chapter XLII.—The order of ministers in the Church. 53 Chapter XLII.—The order of ministers in the Church.